Introduction to Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta
Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, bringing together the creamy richness of coconut with the unique, fragrant flavor of pandan. This dessert not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers a taste of Southeast Asian culinary heritage. Perfect for young professionals who enjoy creating homemade delicacies without spending hours in the kitchen, this panna cotta is both innovative and surprisingly simple to make.
The Allure of Pandan
Pandan leaves are a key ingredient in many Asian dishes, known for their sweet, floral aroma and vibrant green color. When infused into desserts like panna cotta, pandan adds a depth of flavor that’s both refreshing and exotic. It’s a perfect complement to the creaminess of coconut milk, creating a dessert that is not just pleasing to the palate but also visually stunning.
Why Choose Coconut Panna Cotta?
Coconut milk is a staple in many tropical cuisines, and its creamy texture makes it an ideal base for desserts. In this recipe, the combination of coconut milk and heavy cream yields a luxuriously silky panna cotta that melts in your mouth. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of dietary preferences.
This dessert is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can impress your friends at your next gathering with this elegant treat. So, why not indulge in a bowl of Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta and experience the harmonious blend of flavors that this unique dessert has to offer?
In summary, Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta is the perfect dessert for those looking to explore new flavors while enjoying a creamy and satisfying treat. It’s an easy yet impressive way to elevate your dessert game and bring a taste of the tropics to your home.
Key Ingredients
Coconut Milk (2 cups)
Coconut milk serves as the rich and creamy base of the panna cotta, imparting a tropical flavor that is both comforting and indulgent. Its smooth texture helps create the silky consistency that makes this dessert so appealing.
Heavy Cream (1 cup)
Heavy cream enhances the richness of the panna cotta, ensuring a luxurious mouthfeel. The high fat content contributes to the dessert’s creamy texture, making each bite melt in your mouth.
Sugar (3/4 cup)
Sugar sweetens the panna cotta, balancing the flavors and enhancing the overall taste. It dissolves easily in the warm mixture, ensuring a smooth dessert without any graininess.
Pandan Extract (2 teaspoons)
Pandan extract brings an aromatic and unique flavor to the panna cotta, characteristic of Southeast Asian desserts. It adds a delightful green hue and a hint of vanilla undertones, elevating the dessert’s complexity.
Gelatin Powder (3 teaspoons)
Gelatin is the key ingredient that helps the panna cotta set properly, providing the perfect wobble and structure. It ensures that the dessert holds its shape while remaining soft and creamy.
Water (1/4 cup)
Water is used to bloom the gelatin, activating it before it is incorporated into the warm coconut mixture. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in the final dessert.
Salt (pinch)
A pinch of salt enhances the flavors of the panna cotta, balancing the sweetness and bringing out the richness of the coconut and cream. This subtle addition ensures a well-rounded flavor profile.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta is a dessert that not only pleases the palate but also dazzles the eyes. Its creamy texture and unique flavor profile make it a standout choice for gatherings or a sweet treat at home. With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for young professionals who love homemade food but are often pressed for time.
A Unique Flavor Experience
The combination of pandan and coconut creates an exotic flavor that sets this panna cotta apart from traditional desserts. The aromatic pandan adds a refreshing twist, while the coconut milk provides a rich creaminess that is simply irresistible. Each bite is a delightful journey to tropical shores, making it hard to resist going back for seconds.
Effortless Elegance
What’s even better? This dessert requires only a few steps and minimal hands-on time, allowing you to focus on enjoying the moment rather than stressing in the kitchen. With just 15 minutes of prep and a few hours in the fridge, you can serve up an elegant dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes, making it a perfect choice for entertaining.
In short, Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta combines unique flavors with ease of preparation, making it a must-try for anyone looking to impress their guests or enjoy a sweet escape at home.
Variations on Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta
Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta is a versatile dessert that allows for a range of delicious variations. Whether you’re looking to enhance the flavor profile or add an exciting twist, these options will keep your dessert experience fresh and delightful.
Tropical Fruit Toppings
One of the easiest ways to elevate your panna cotta is by adding fresh tropical fruits like mango, passion fruit, or pineapple. These fruits not only add vibrant colors but also a burst of acidity that complements the creaminess of the panna cotta beautifully. Simply arrange the fruit on top just before serving for a stunning presentation.
Infused Flavors
Experimenting with different extracts can lead to exciting new flavors. Consider adding a few drops of vanilla extract or a hint of orange zest to your coconut mixture. These subtle additions can enhance the overall taste, creating a unique dessert that still respects the classic essence of Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta.
Layered Desserts
For a beautiful presentation, try layering your panna cotta with a fruit puree or a flavored gel. A layer of raspberry or strawberry puree can add a delightful contrast in both flavor and texture, making it visually appealing as well. Just be sure to let the panna cotta set before adding the next layer for the best results.
These variations not only offer different taste experiences but also keep this beloved dessert exciting for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!

Cooking Tips and Notes
Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta is a delightful treat that can be easily mastered with a few helpful tips. This dessert is not only simple to make but also allows for creativity in presentation and flavor enhancements.
Perfecting the Texture
To ensure a silky smooth panna cotta, it’s crucial to dissolve the gelatin completely in the warm coconut mixture. If you notice any lumps, you can strain the mixture before pouring it into molds. This step guarantees a flawless final product that’s pleasing to the eye and palate.
Flavor Boosting Tips
For those who want to amplify the pandan flavor, consider increasing the amount of pandan extract slightly. Just a little more can elevate the dessert, making it more fragrant and flavorful. Additionally, serving it with a drizzle of coconut cream or fresh fruit can add layers of flavor and texture, enhancing the overall experience.
Storing and Serving
Once set, the panna cotta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a convenient dessert for meal prep. When ready to serve, gently unmold the panna cotta onto a plate and garnish with your choice of toppings for an impressive presentation. Remember, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes can add a delightful crunch!
With these tips, your Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any dessert table.
Serving Suggestions for Panna Cotta
Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta is not just a delicious dessert; it also offers a canvas for creative serving ideas that enhance its tropical flair.
Garnish with Fruits
Consider topping your panna cotta with fresh tropical fruits like sliced mango, kiwi, or berries. These additions not only add color and vibrancy but also a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture, making each bite a delightful experience.
Drizzle with Coconut Cream
A light drizzle of coconut cream can elevate the dessert further, adding richness and a touch of decadence. This simple addition enhances the coconut flavor and provides a beautiful presentation.
Serve with a Side
Pair your panna cotta with a side of fruit coulis or a scoop of sorbet for an extra layer of flavor. This combination can make for a stunning dessert plate that impresses guests while satisfying sweet cravings.
These serving suggestions can transform Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta into a memorable dessert, perfect for any occasion.

Time Breakdown for Preparation
Understanding the time required for making Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta can help you plan your dessert-making session effectively. This dessert is simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for young professionals with busy schedules.
Preparation
The preparation time for this delightful panna cotta is just 15 minutes. During this time, you will gather your ingredients, combine them, and prepare the gelatin to create the base of your dessert.
Cooking
The cooking time is minimal, requiring only 10 minutes to heat the coconut milk, heavy cream, and sugar until the sugar dissolves. This ensures a smooth mixture before adding the gelatin.
Total Time
Although the active time is short, the total time to enjoy this dessert is about 4 hours and 25 minutes, which includes chilling time. Patience is key here, as allowing it to set properly ensures the best texture and flavor.
For efficiency, consider preparing this dessert ahead of time, as it can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.
Nutritional Facts for Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta
Understanding the nutritional profile of Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta can help you enjoy this delicious dessert while being mindful of your dietary choices. Each serving contains approximately 320 calories, making it a satisfying yet indulgent treat. With 20 grams of sugar and 22 grams of fat, including 18 grams of saturated fat, it’s essential to enjoy this panna cotta in moderation.
Additionally, this dessert contains 30 milligrams of cholesterol and 25 milligrams of sodium, making it a rich option for special occasions. With 30 grams of carbohydrates and 1 gram of fiber, it also provides a quick energy source. Overall, this creamy delight is not just a feast for the senses but can also fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed responsibly.
FAQ Based on ‘People Also Ask’
What is Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta?
Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta is a deliciously creamy dessert that combines the rich flavors of coconut milk and heavy cream with the unique aroma of pandan. This Asian-inspired treat is both visually appealing and indulgent, making it perfect for any occasion.
How long does it take to make Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta?
The total time to make Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta is about 4 hours and 25 minutes. This includes approximately 15 minutes of preparation, 10 minutes of cooking, and at least 4 hours for chilling to set properly.
Can I make Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta in advance?
Yes, you can make Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta in advance! It can be prepared the day before serving, making it a convenient dessert option for gatherings or special occasions. Just ensure it is stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
What can I serve with Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta?
Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta pairs beautifully with fresh fruits, such as mango or berries, and can be enhanced with a drizzle of coconut cream. These additions not only complement the flavors but also add a burst of color to your dessert presentation.
Conclusion on Enjoying Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta
Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that combines rich flavors and a silky texture. This delightful treat is perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging yourself after a long day. With its easy preparation and stunning presentation, it’s a dessert that fits seamlessly into any occasion.
By exploring variations and pairing it with fresh fruits or coconut cream, you can customize this panna cotta to suit your taste. Remember, the magic lies in the balance of flavors, so don’t hesitate to experiment. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a sweet escape at home, this dessert promises satisfaction with every spoonful. So, gather your ingredients, whip up a batch, and enjoy the delightful tropical flavors of Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta!
Print
Pandan Coconut Panna Cotta
A deliciously creamy dessert infused with pandan and coconut flavors.
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups coconut milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons pandan extract
- 3 teaspoons gelatin powder
- 1/4 cup water
- pinch salt
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat until sugar is dissolved.
- Add pandan extract and salt, stirring well.
- In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
- Add the bloomed gelatin to the warm coconut mixture, mixing until fully dissolved.
- Pour the mixture into molds and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until set.
- To serve, gently unmold and enjoy.
Notes
- For a stronger pandan flavor, increase the pandan extract.
- Can be served with fresh fruit or a drizzle of coconut cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilled
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 panna cotta
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg

